La Graciosa: The Hidden Jewel of Lanzarote (Canary Islands, Spain)

Eli on top of the world — we mean Montaña Bermeja!

Ah, La Graciosa — Literally “The graceful”, or “The fun one”. Just saying the name brings back the memories of dusty trails, endless turquoise waters, and that peculiar scent of sea breeze mixed with volcanic earth.

It’s hard to believe this tiny island, often overshadowed by Lanzarote’s dramatic attractions, remains such a well-kept secret. It’s not even that remote! But maybe that’s its magic — hidden, untouched, and breathtakingly wild.

This was definitely the highlight of our trip to the Canary Islands, one of those places with an “end of the world” feeling that we love at Penguin Trampoline!

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Where is La Graciosa? Where is Lanzarote? And where are the Canary Islands?

We’re aware that you might not know where Lanzarote is, let alone La Graciosa! So, let’s set the scene. The Canary Islands are a volcanic archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, but they belong to Spain. Picture seven main islands (and a few tinier ones, like our dear Graciosa), with a weather that looks like an eternal spring. Lanzarote is the northeastern gem of this chain, famous for its surreal volcanic landscapes and absolutely dramatic beauty.

Now, just north of Lanzarote, separated by a narrow strip of shimmering blue sea called El Río, lies La Graciosa. It’s the smallest inhabited Canary Island, a 29-square-kilometer haven of tranquility. Despite its proximity to Lanzarote, it feels like stepping into another world — or even another planet — far from the hustle of modern life.

Did you know?

The Canary Islands are a living testament to Earth’s volcanic power. Sitting atop a hotspot in the Atlantic Ocean, these islands were born from fiery eruptions millions of years ago. La Palma’s Cumbre Vieja volcano erupted as recently as 2021, making it one of the most active volcanic regions in Europe.

How to get to La Graciosa: A ferry ride to paradise

Getting to La Graciosa is a short, scenic ferry ride from Órzola, the northernmost town on Lanzarote. We parked our rental car right by the ferry terminal. The journey takes 25 minutes, but it feels like crossing into another world. There are no paved roads, no traffic lights — just golden sands, volcanic hills, and an overwhelming sense of peace.

We decided to take the first ferry, early morning, and that was a great idea to escape the crowds, have the island almost to ourselves and see the sunrise from the boat!

We walked off the ferry and were greeted by Caleta de Sebo, the island’s only town. Its whitewashed buildings and silent, sandy streets felt timeless, as if they’d been plucked from a different era. There’s something liberating about a place where shoes and cars seem optional!

Did you know?

For centuries, La Graciosa served as a base for fishermen and a stopover for pirates navigating the Atlantic. Officially recognized as part of the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park in the late 20th century, it remains protected and largely untouched. Only in 2018 was La Graciosa officially declared the Canary Islands' eighth inhabited island.

What to do in La Graciosa: Volcanoes, beaches and pure bliss

Hit the beach

La Graciosa is home to some of the most stunning beaches we’ve ever seen. Playa de las Conchas is a must a vast expanse of golden sand with waves crashing dramatically against the shore. It’s wild, untamed, and utterly mesmerizing. Be careful though, as currents can be strong!

You’ll get a fantastic view of Playa de las Conchas from the top of Montaña Bermeja. Short climb for insanely rewarding views!

Then there’s Playa Francesa — Literally the French beach (Eli here: My beach!) — tucked away in a sheltered bay, perfect for swimming or just wading into the warm, crystalline water. The colors are just so pure: white sand, turquoise water, insanely blue sky. We spent hours here, feeling like castaways in the best possible way.

We challenge you to find a better postcard than Playa Francesa!

Climb a volcano

The island’s volcanic origins are impossible to ignore. La Graciosa, like its Canary siblings, was born from fiery eruptions millions of years ago. The landscape is a painter’s palette of earthy reds, blacks, and golds, shaped by molten lava and ash. It’s geology at its most dramatic.

One of the highlights of our day was the hike up Montaña Bermeja, a reddish, oh-so picturesque volcanic cone rising over the island. The trek was short but steep, winding through loose volcanic gravel. As we climbed, the wind picked up, which was awesome as it was so hot, even in January! At the summit, we were rewarded with jaw-dropping views on all sides: the entire island stretched below us, with its beaches, dunes, blue and turquoise waters and rocky outcrops.

Looking west, we saw the uninhabited islets of the Chinijo Archipelago, remnants of ancient eruptions. To the south, Lanzarote’s jagged silhouette. Standing there, we felt very small, part of a story that began millions of years ago. Wow.

Where to eat in La Graciosa: ¡Qué bien me sabe!

In Caleta de Sebo, food is simple and delicious, just like life! Fresh, local, and unpretentious, it’s the kind of cuisine that makes you want to slow down.

We had a great meal at Casa Enriqueta, with Gofio (a type of flour made from toasted cereals, mainly corn, and used to make a paste), grilled fish, Papas arrugadas (Canarian wrinkled potatoes), Mojo sauce, and, last but not least, Bienmesabe, our favorite Canarian dessert. The name litteraly means “It tastes good to me”!

If you venture out of Caleta (and you should), get some groceries for a picnic, including delicious pastries at Panadería Quela.

Before you take off on your Canarian adventure, remember to book a travel insurance. Get 5% off with our favorite provider and partner HeyMondo! You know, just in case you choke on your Gofio, like Jake here…

How to move around La Graciosa: Forget cars!

There are jeep taxis, but the best way to really breathe and feel La Graciosa is by bike or on foot.

We love to walk, so that was an easy decision. The island’s trails are flat for the most part and so rewarding, leading you through volcanic deserts, past ancient lava fields, and along cliff edges that plunge dramatically into the ocean.

It’s not just a walk —it’s an adventure, a chance to connect with nature in its rawest, most unspoiled form.

Just bear in mind there are no trees, which mean no shade. Make sure to bring a hat, water and sunblock, even in winter!

The road to Montaña Bermeja… My precious!

Where to stay on La Graciosa: Ooooom

Accommodation options are very limited but charming. Whether you choose a guesthouse or a small apartment, you’ll really enjoy the peace and quiet, especially once the last ferry has left.

We stayed 10 days in Lanzarote so we booked an ecofriendly cabin on the main island. It was absolutely awesome, surrounded by volcanos and 3 min from the sea!

Penguin Trampoline tip:

The Canary Islands enjoy a mild climate year-round. In winter, prices are incredibly low, and you’ll enjoy the same sunny weather! To give you an idea, in January, our flights from Barcelona with Vueling were around 25€, and accommodation around 50€/night (with sea/volcano views!)

Here’s a playlist to get into the local vibe:

Our day in La Graciosa felt wayyyy too short, and we would love to spend a few nights next time! It’s the kind of place that gets under your skin, stays in your heart, and whispers, “Vuelve pronto”

So, if you’re planning a trip to Lanzarote, do yourself a favor: reserve a day (or two, or three) to visit La Graciosa. Walk its trails, climb its volcanoes, swim in its crystalline waters, and let its quiet magic work mesmerize your senses!